In "White Men in Africa: On Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible" (2001), Diana Kunz fortifies links between the lives of the Price family in Kilanga and the relationship of Congo with its Caucasian invaders by providing additional information that enhances the historical background for Kingsolver's audience. Kunz draws emphasis to the historical element of The Poisonwood Bible by first taking note of Orleanne's retrospective tone within the novel, transitioning to the representative roles that Brother Fowles and Eeban Axleroot play, and by finally moving out of the scope of the plot to introduce information that Kingsolver neglects to touch upon. Kunz introduces unmentioned history in order to provide Kingsolver's audience with information that may shift their perceptions on events and the consequential reactions of characters within The Poisonwood Bible. Kunz wrote this critical essay for members of Kingsolver's audience who may be inclined to polarize the issue of imperialism in Africa.
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